madbeanpedals::forum

General => Open Discussion => Topic started by: lars on April 18, 2024, 08:52:55 PM

Title: Transparent isolation washers?
Post by: lars on April 18, 2024, 08:52:55 PM
I know nobody manufactures them, but with 3D printing so prevalent, I'm sure somebody could make them.
Transparent resin printing (https://formlabs.com/blog/3d-printing-transparent-parts-techniques-for-finishing-clear-resin/)
The most practical use for these would be to add LED lighting to vintage pedals without having to drill or modify in any way. The washers could either be for a 1/4" jack or the stomp switch. With how ridiculously bright LEDs are these days, I'm sure the light would bleed out just fine.
Title: Re: Transparent isolation washers?
Post by: TNblueshawk on April 21, 2024, 03:14:40 PM
I can't have any see through washers Lars as how am I going to hide my drilling, paint and epoxy scratch off mistakes  :o
Title: Re: Transparent isolation washers?
Post by: jwin615 on April 21, 2024, 05:28:47 PM
Laser cut acrylic may be the way to go.
Acrylic washers fo exist

https://a.aliexpress.com/_mtnuoyi
Title: Re: Transparent isolation washers?
Post by: pickdropper on April 22, 2024, 12:35:43 PM
Yeah, laser cut acrylic would probably look clearer than 3D printed as long as you just want simple flat geometry.
Title: Re: Transparent isolation washers?
Post by: Funkasaurus on May 07, 2024, 03:28:20 PM
I was just browsing at LMS  and saw that they carry clear stomp switch washers.  They're 10 for $1, so that might be an easy investment on the next order just to have on hand for the future.
Title: Re: Transparent isolation washers?
Post by: lars on May 08, 2024, 01:40:52 AM
Quote from: Funkasaurus on May 07, 2024, 03:28:20 PMI was just browsing at LMS  and saw that they carry clear stomp switch washers
The problem isn't finding clear washers. With a clear regular washer it would be very difficult to get a consistent light transfer without the switch or jack being perfectly centered in the hole, which is just about impossible to do as you tighten it down. A clear isolation/insulation washer is what is needed to keep things centered and keep a consistent gap around the circumference for the light to bleed through.